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Art photography has undergone many transformations since its beginnings in the 19th century. Every decade brings its share of technical innovations and artistic movements that shape this unique form of expression. If you're considering starting an art collection, it's essential to understand the evolution of this discipline to better appreciate the art photographs that could enrich your portfolio.

The beginnings of art photography

In the early 19th century, photography was primarily a scientific method designed to capture images of reality. With the invention of the daguerreotype in 1839, photography became accessible to the general public, but its artistic status was not yet recognized. Early photographers began experimenting with composition and light, but the fiscality of works of art was not a central concern. It was more about capturing the beauty of nature and everyday life.

The pioneers of artistic photography

Figures like Julia Margaret Cameron and Alfred Stieglitz began to stand out as artists in their own right. Their work paved the way for greater recognition of photography as an art form in its own right. Cameron, for example, used blurring techniques to create a special atmosphere in his portraits, while Stieglitz founded the "Photo-Secession" movement, which celebrated photography as an artistic medium.

The 1920s and experimentation

The 1920s marked a turning point in the world of art photography. Experimentation became a major trend, and artists began to incorporate elements of surrealism and the avant-garde into their work. It was during this decade that photographers like Man Ray and Paul Strand explored new techniques and concepts. Art photographs are beginning to be perceived as precious objects, prompting collectors to invest in limited art editions.

The birth of influential movements

Movements such as "New Vision" emerged, emphasizing innovative viewpoints and shooting techniques. Artists sought to capture the essence of modern life through unique perspectives. This has led to a growing interest in collecting photo art, as these works begin to be recognized as cultural testimonies of the era.

The 1960s and conceptual art

In the 1960s, art photography underwent a new revolution with the emergence of conceptual art. Artists such as Cindy Sherman and Dan Graham raise new questions about identity and representation. Photography becomes a means of exploring ideas rather than simply capturing images. This period also brings a discussion on the taxation of works of art, stimulated by the increasing value of photographic works.

The impact of photography on pop culture

Photography begins to play a central role in popular culture. Photographers like Richard Avedon and Helmut Newton reinvented fashion through photography, generating a craze for buying iconic images. This encourages collectors to explore art photography as decorative elements and cultural statements.

The 1980s and growing popularity

Art photography experienced enormous popularity in the 1980s. Art galleries are seeing the emergence of exhibitions dedicated to photography, while auction houses are beginning to focus on photographic collections. Collectors are increasingly attracted by the idea of supporting emerging artists, with a willingness to buy works that could increase in value over time.

Towards a democratization of art

The rise of digital technologies is transforming the way we perceive and access art. Art photography is becoming increasingly accessible, enabling a wider public to discover and appreciate works previously reserved for the elite. This has given rise to a new interest in limited editions, making the purchase of works of art more attractive to enthusiasts.

The 2000s and digital

The technological advances of the 2000s radically change the game for fine art photography. Digital cameras make photography even more accessible, but this also raises questions about the authenticity and value of the works. In this context, it becomes crucial for collectors to understand how to start an art collection while taking into consideration the impact of digital on the market.

The role of online platforms

Online platforms make it easier to buy and sell art photographs, creating a new market for artists and collectors. Social networks give emerging artists unprecedented visibility, enabling them to connect directly with potential buyers. This opens doors to a new generation of collectors who wish to support emerging artists through online purchases.

Contemporary art: towards the future

Scanning the future of art photography, we can expect a combination of traditional and digital techniques. Virtual and augmented reality, for example, are beginning to influence the way we interact with works of art. This blend of mediums promises to further elevate photography as an art form in its own right.

Current issues in art photography

With the rise of digital art, the discussion around the fiscality of works of art is becoming increasingly important. Collectors and artists alike have to navigate a complex and rapidly changing landscape, especially when it comes to assessing the value of digital works versus traditional photographs.

Trends to watch

For collectors looking to start an art collection, certain trends deserve special attention. Here are a few aspects to consider:

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  • As art movements dematerialize:The boundaries between photography, digital and performance continue to blur.
  • The rise of NFTs: Non-fungible tokens represent a new way of buying and selling art, offering unique ownership opportunities.
  • Preserving authenticity: Questions concerning authenticity will be crucial to better valuing works, especially those by emerging artists.
  • Social responsibility: More and more artists are using their work to address social issues, attracting the attention of collectors.

Your journey into the world of art photography

Entering the fascinating world of fine art photography is much more than just a matter of buying. It's an adventure that connects you to visionary artists, cultural movements, and even a community of like-minded collectors. Whether you're a curious novice or a budding expert, every art photograph you choose tells a unique story.

As a collector, it's important to focus not just on the financial value of the works, but also on the emotional and visual impact they have on you. This will facilitate an authentic link with your collection and encourage your passion for fine art photography to grow.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the heart of this beautiful art form, explore, discover and maybe even unearth the next centerpiece for your collection. The world of fine art photography is rich and varied, ready to inspire and enrich your life!

Every day

The photographic diary

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Le quai flik flaque
  • by Jef Baecker

The flick flack dock

Through the raindrop-covered window of the commuter train, I watched the outside world blur. On the quay, people moved about, soaked but still moving forward, each carrying the day's fatigue in their stride. The rain poured down the glass in thick drops, distorting the scene like a watercolor painting. There was something curiously soothing about this quiet moment in the rain. The roar of the train, the soft sound of footsteps on wet pavement, the shared fatigue of all those just trying to get home. Soaked to the bone, there's always that little glimmer of hope when you know you're heading for warmth and rest.

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Le radeau des ados
  • by Jef Baecker

The teen raft

The afternoon sun bathed the scene in brilliant light, illuminating a group of teenagers scattered along the shore, their carefree laughter echoing above the waves. Boys tried to impress the girls with exaggerated dives into the shallow water, while others threw pebbles or sprawled nonchalantly on the warm sand. The girls, sunglasses on, watched with a mixture of amusement and feigned indifference, exchanging glances and subtle smiles. A peculiar energy floated in the air-a play of subtle gestures and light teasing, an implicit language of budding attraction and discovery. It was adolescence in its sunny purity, on the edge of something bigger.

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Le passage
  • by Jef Baecker

The passage

The narrow passage was dimly lit, the kind of place where time seems suspended. A young boy climbed the worn stone steps, his small silhouette framed by the worn walls of the passageway. He moved forward with quiet determination, each step echoing softly in the confined space. There was something timeless about this scene, its innocence contrasting with the raw, almost forgotten setting of this corner of the city. He didn't hurry, but his steps seemed to carry a purpose, as if he were climbing towards something bigger, something that was waiting for him just at the top of the steps...

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Dans le froid sans droit
  • by Jef Baecker

In the lawless cold

He was sitting outside the metro, bundled up in layers that struggled to counter the biting cold. His hands, rough and trembling, held an old goblet that tinkled softly with a few coins. The mist of crossed breaths mingled with the cold, but the world around him went on, hurried and indifferent. He didn't scream or beg; his eyes told the story-a quiet, tired hope in the face of winter's relentless cold. For a moment, under the bright streetlamps, he wasn't invisible, just a man facing the cold, waiting for goodness to find him.

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Route de nuit
  • by Jef Baecker

Night drive

The city unfolded like a dream through the windshield, streaked with the reflections of passing lights and the light blur of raindrops. The Parisian streets at night vibrated with a gentle life, their glow dimmed by the haze of a fading day to give way to an even longer night. Neon signs flickered on café facades, and headlights drew ephemeral patterns on the damp asphalt. From the warmth of the car, it was as if we were floating in a tableau vivant; each bend revealing a new story in the shadows, each pause offering a moment to absorb the beauty of a city that never really sleeps.

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Trajectoire
  • by Jef Baecker

Trajectory

Through the fogged subway windows, a kaleidoscope of graffiti and tags danced in layers of reflection and transparency. The city's voice, raw and uncompromising, spread across walls and tunnels in bright colors and bold strokes. Each tag told a story-a name, a declaration, a moment of rebellion frozen in paint. The play of light and shadow through the glass added depth to the scene, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. It was art in motion, ephemeral but powerful, a reminder that even in the most banal spaces, creativity leaves its mark.

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Coeur en tumulte
  • by Jef Baecker

Heart in turmoil

Amidst the flashes of strobe light and the dull rhythm of the bass, there they were, isolated from the frenzy, a peaceful island in the midst of the tumult. Her eyes, soft and sincere, hung on him with a tenderness that transcended the surrounding chaos. He bowed slightly, looking calm and open, as if the world had shrunk to theirs alone. The moment seemed suspended, escaping time-a rare pause in a night made for anything but stillness. Love, in its silent simplicity, illuminated its own stage under the neon glow.

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Le concert
  • by Jef Baecker

The concert

The air vibrated with palpable tension, a collective energy that rippled through the crowd as shadows danced under the stage lights. The bass line resonated deeply, hitting every chest, while bursts of color punctuated the space. Faces, briefly lit, reflected wonder, euphoria and surrender to the music. The artist on stage moved like a silhouette against the vibrant hues of the spotlights, captivating every soul with every note. In this shared heartbeat, the world outside the concert faded away, giving way to the magic of the music and the electricity of the shared moment.

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Au bloc sanitaire
  • by Jef Baecker

Sanitary block

She was sitting peacefully on her chaise longue, bathed in the midday sunlight, turning the pages of her book. The scene exuded tranquility, but its absurdity could not be ignored, as its carefully chosen location was right next to the campsite's toilet block. A bright red towel lay on the chair, floating lightly in the breeze, and the hum of the day's heat mingled with the occasional sound of a door opening. But she seemed indifferent, perhaps even delightfully oblivious, as if the world beyond her book simply didn't exist. The contrast was amusing and strangely charming-a perfect blend of serenity and the unexpected.

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The print shop

Jef Baecker's photographic collection features a wide range of subjects, all carefully selected for their unique aesthetic and emotional impact. All the works presented in this collection are limited editions and quickly find their collectors. New photographs are added regularly.